8 Soups That Dry You Out and 5 Low-Carb Stews That Truly Hydrate

Explore how some popular soups can lead to dehydration due to their high sodium content, while certain low-carb stews offer a more hydrating and nutritious alternative.

1. Canned Chicken Noodle Soup

The classic canned chicken noodle soup is a pantry staple for many. Despite its comforting warmth and nostalgic appeal, it’s typically brimming with sodium, which can lead to dehydration. A single serving often surpasses daily salt recommendations, making it more about bloat than benefit.

For those seeking hydration, this isn’t the ideal choice. The noodles and chicken bits float in a salty broth that fails to replenish fluids adequately. Yet, its convenience and taste keep it a go-to for quick meals, making it a divisive choice in the soup aisle.

2. Instant Ramen

Instant ramen is a college student’s dream—cheap, quick, and tasty. However, this nostalgic dish is essentially just salty water with noodles, lacking real nutrition. Each packet contains a hefty dose of sodium, contributing to dehydration rather than hydration.

It’s a comfort food that’s easy to make but doesn’t offer much in terms of health benefits. Despite its convenience, relying on instant ramen for hydration is like trying to quench your thirst with sea water. It’s a culinary paradox that continues to be a staple in many households worldwide.

3. French Onion Soup

With its caramelized onions and gooey cheese topping, French onion soup is a rich indulgence. But, beneath its savory surface lies a dehydration trap. The combination of salty broth, cheese, and croutons creates a recipe more suited for comfort than hydration.

While it pleases the palate, it leaves the body craving water. This soup exemplifies how flavor can sometimes overshadow the need for balance in nutrition. It’s a culinary delight that should be enjoyed in moderation, especially if hydration is a priority for you.

4. Cream of Mushroom

Cream of mushroom soup is all about indulgence. Its thick, rich texture is achieved through ample cream, leaving little room for water content. This comforting dish can be warming, but it doesn’t offer the refreshing quality one might seek in a soup.

It’s a classic in casseroles and as a standalone dish, yet its creamy nature makes it more of a dense meal than a hydrating option. Ideal for cozy nights in, it’s best paired with a tall glass of water to counterbalance its creamy richness.

5. Clam Chowder

Clam chowder is a staple in coastal cuisine, known for its creamy base and hearty ingredients. However, its thick, dairy-heavy composition and hidden sodium can be dehydrating. As comforting as it is, clam chowder often leans more towards being a stew in terms of weight than a refreshing soup.

With chunks of potato and clams swimming in cream, this dish is more about indulgence than hydration. It’s a beloved classic, perfect for a chilly day by the sea, but it won’t quench your thirst effectively.

6. Broccoli Cheese Soup

Broccoli cheese soup is like a melted cheese festival with sporadic appearances of broccoli bits. It’s a cozy, comforting dish that leaves one reaching for water afterward. The focus on cheese overshadows any hydrating elements the broccoli might offer.

Thick and indulgent, it’s perfect for those seeking comfort over refreshment. Despite its deliciousness, it’s not the soup to turn to for hydration. Instead, it serves as a reminder of how flavorful ingredients can sometimes lead to an imbalance in nutritional needs.

7. Tomato Bisque

Tomato bisque sounds like a healthy choice, but often, cream and sugar find their way into the recipe. Store-bought versions tend to be loaded with sodium, making them less hydrating than they appear.

This soup’s silky texture and tangy flavor are inviting, yet it can contribute to dehydration despite its tomato base. An exploration of taste and texture, tomato bisque offers more indulgence than hydration. It’s a sumptuous choice that pairs well with a crusty bread, but not the best for quenching thirst.

8. Loaded Potato Soup

Loaded potato soup is the epitome of comfort food. With bacon, cheese, and cream, it offers a rich, hearty experience. However, this indulgence comes at the cost of hydration. The soup’s creamy base leaves little room for water, making it more about comfort than refreshment.

Despite its lack of hydrating qualities, it remains a favorite for its flavorsome profile. Perfect for a cozy night in, this soup is all about warmth and satisfaction, not hydration. It’s a dish that invites indulgence, but not without a tall drink on the side.

9. Chicken & Vegetable Stew

Chicken & vegetable stew combines lean chicken with a broth base brimming with hydrating veggies like zucchini, celery, and spinach. This stew is a powerhouse of nutrition, offering both hydration and a satisfying meal.

Unlike its sodium-heavy soup counterparts, it provides a lighter alternative that’s still hearty. It’s a popular choice for those seeking a balanced diet. Each spoonful is a mix of texture and flavor, making it an excellent option for hydration and nourishment without the guilt of excess salt.

10. Coconut Curry Cauliflower Stew

Coconut curry cauliflower stew is a delightful fusion of flavors. Made with light coconut milk and exotic spices, it offers hydration and anti-inflammatory benefits. The cauliflower adds texture and nutrition, creating a wholesome dish that satisfies both taste and health goals.

This stew’s light, aromatic nature makes it a refreshing alternative to heavier soups. It’s perfect for those looking to explore bold flavors without compromising on hydration. Each bite offers a touch of the tropics, making it an adventure for the palate.

11. Zucchini & Ground Turkey Stew

Zucchini & ground turkey stew is a low-carb, high-protein option that shines in terms of hydration. The water-rich zucchini and savory broth create a delicious combination. Ground turkey adds a satisfying protein element, making it a great weeknight go-to.

This stew balances flavor and health seamlessly, offering a nourishing meal that doesn’t skimp on moisture. It’s a practical choice for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying a flavorful dish. The mix of textures keeps it interesting with every bite.

12. Cabbage & Beef Stew

Cabbage & beef stew brings together hydration and heartiness. Cabbage provides ample water content and fiber, while lean beef adds depth and flavor. This stew is a hearty option that doesn’t rely on starch to fill you up.

It’s a satisfying meal that hydrates and nourishes, perfect for those seeking a robust dish. The balance of cabbage and beef offers both texture and taste, making it a timeless favorite. A wholesome choice for any meal, it demonstrates how satisfying and hydrating can coexist.

13. Lemon Chicken Spinach Stew

Lemon chicken spinach stew is a bright and zesty option for those seeking hydration. The citrusy broth, combined with tender chicken and wilted spinach, offers a light, refreshing meal.

This stew is both nourishing and satisfying, perfect for a refreshing dinner. The lemon adds a tangy twist that invigorates the palate, while spinach provides additional hydration. It’s a delightful dish that breaks away from heavier soups, providing a crisp finish to any meal.